Transformational Leadership: How to Be the Leader the World Needs Today

In a fast-evolving business world, traditional leadership models are no longer enough. The new generations of professionals demand a more human, flexible, and ethical approach. In this context, the testimony of Roberto Hernández, former General Manager of Coca-Cola and former director of ECO Líderes, offers us a refreshed perspective on what it means to be a leader today.

From Management to Transformation

Roberto Hernández shares his experience in the corporate world, highlighting his time at various companies, including his long tenure at Coca-Cola. After his resignation in 2013, he dedicated himself to mentoring and coaching executives and entrepreneurs, a decision that reflects his deep interest in transformational leadership.

In his words, leadership should not be limited to achieving short-term results. Over time, he learned that the true impact of a leader is measured by their ability to inspire, transform, and create positive change both in people and organizations. According to Roberto, the key is having a vision that goes beyond immediate results. An effective leader must be able to engage their team, foster personal and professional development, and generate a social impact.

The Evolution of Leadership: From Autocratic to Inspirational

Leadership has radically changed in recent decades. Whereas it was once common for leaders to adopt an autocratic approach, focused on control and achieving results at any cost, today a broader vision is required. Technology, generational shifts, and the growing awareness of sustainability and social well-being have forced companies to rethink their approach to leadership.

Roberto Fernández emphasizes that being a leader today requires having the credentials to operate in a complex world, where it is no longer enough to focus solely on results. A leader must be aware of their impact on society, the planet, and, of course, the people they lead. This requires a more human-centered approach that values not just performance but also the well-being of individuals and the environment in which they operate.

Diversity, Inclusion, and Leadership: The Future of Business

A fundamental aspect of transformational leadership is integrating diversity and inclusion into the workplace. In many cases, the lack of representation in leadership roles, especially of women and people with disabilities, limits the potential of organizations. Roberto shares alarming statistics on the underrepresentation of women in boards and other key areas of companies, highlighting the urgent need to rethink inclusion policies.

Companies that invest in diversity not only contribute to a more equitable society but also achieve better results. The diversity of perspectives, skills, and experiences is an invaluable asset that allows companies to better adapt to changes and make more informed decisions. Roberto advocates for an inclusive approach that recognizes the talent and value of all individuals, regardless of their gender, origin, or abilities.

The Leadership of the Future: Holistic and Systemic

The leadership of tomorrow will be holistic, systemic, and flexible. The rigid hierarchical models that defined organizations in the past are being replaced by more fluid structures, where the well-being of people, equity, and positive social impact are just as important as financial results. Roberto emphasizes that leaders must be able to manage not only human resources but also human capital, acting as true strategic partners in building a more inclusive and sustainable organizational culture.

This approach requires a mindset shift: leaders must stop thinking in terms of control and start viewing leadership as a collaborative process, based on trust, empathy, and openness. This means taking a deeper and more personalized look at the individual needs and talents of each team member.

The Transformation Is in Your Hands

Today, anyone can be a leader, regardless of their position in the organizational hierarchy. Leadership is no longer confined to top positions but can arise at any time and anywhere. Being a transformational leader means having the ability to inspire others, foster their personal and professional growth, and create a positive impact on the world around us.

If you want to be part of this change, it's time to rethink your approach to leadership. Listen, learn, and share with your team. Promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. And most importantly, work every day to be an inspiration to others. True transformation begins from within.

This article is contextualized in the LinkedIn Live titled "New Leaderships, You Can Also Be a Leader," where we had the honor of featuring Roberto Hernández, former Director of ECO Líderes and former General Manager of Coca-Cola. During this session, Roberto shared his extensive experience in the corporate world and his transition to coaching and mentoring, revealing valuable lessons on transformational leadership, the importance of emotional intelligence, and how new leadership styles can create a positive impact on both organizations and society.